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Here are nine of the best Christmas Markets that you can fly to from Stansted this Christmas:

Zabreb, Croatia

The European Christmas Market in Zabreb, Croatia

One of the finest Christmas Markets in the whole of Europe is the one located in Zagreb, Croatia. It has been voted the ‘European Best Christmas Market’ twice in a row and the Christmas magic is everywhere you look.

The amount of tourists heading to Zagreb every year is growing rapidly, with the city’s streets and squares inviting you to get involved with singing, dancing and other forms of entertainment – along with sampling traditional delicacies alfresco or themed programmes that are bound to take you down memory lane.

Strasbourg, France

The European Christmas Market in Strasbourg, France

Following closely behind in the list of leading Christmas Markets in Europe is also the oldest, and that is in Strasbourg, France.

The Christkindelsmarik was first held in the city back in 1570 and has grown to now include 300 stalls spread over 12 locations in the city centre.

The authentic, warm and bright surroundings will instantly put you in the festive mood, whilst four outstanding Advent concerts, a Living Nativity and a wide range of live music and cultural events keep you entertained.

Colmar, France

The European Christmas Market in Colmar, France

Colmar is the third-largest commune in north-east France where a Christmas Market is held every year that offers the magic of Christmas in its purest form.

There are actually five separate markets across the region, linked with illuminated side streets that are lined with old half-timbered houses.

Each of the five different Christmas Markets in Colmar is like a small village that offers a unique and special look at the area’s passionate and enthusiastic craftsmanship. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the area, wine-tasting, children’s animations, traditional toys and many local concerts.

Aachen, Germany

The European Christmas Market in Aachen, Germany

Each and every year, the people of Germany take pride in transforming the streets around the Aachen Cathedral and Aachen Town Hall into a Christmas wonderland of lights, sounds and smells.

It does not only appeal to the young or the old though, with all market-goers enjoying the selection of original, precious goods that can help make dreams come true.

The Aachen Christmas Market is not only famous among local people though, as it has become a European leading market through its warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Vienna, Austria

The European Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria

High on the list of the most visually-stunning European Christmas Markets is in Vienna, Austria, where Christmas baked products and special hot punch will always help to create a Christmas atmosphere.

The most popular of Christmas Markets in Vienna has to be the 'Vienna Magic of Advent', which turns City Hall Square into a festive fairytale land. Trees surrounding the city are decorated too, which aids the Viennese experience that Essex residents just won't want to miss.

Dresden, Germany

The European Christmas Market in Dresden, Germany

Just look at this Christmas Market in Dresden, Germany, and feel the Christmas spirit overwhelm you. Dresden hosts a whopping eleven Christmas Markets every year, from the no means Dark Ages to the après ski charm of alpine hut, which will give you a headache of where to head first.

The German theaters in the city host Christmas tales, whilst museums host special exhibitions and festive lighting will help make the Christmas holidays last for weeks.

Tallinn, Estonia

The European Christmas Market in Tallinn, Estonia (Image: European Best Destinations)

Next on the list is the ancient city of Tallinn in Estonia, which has drawn a crowd of festive holidaymakers for years on end. Many people that visit the Tallinn Christmas Markets leave believing that they've just visited a genuine fairytale world, which leaves them in the festive mood ready for Christmas Day.

Unlike some other Christmas Markets, there is a large stage in Tallinn which hosts live entertainment on a daily basis, as well as merry-go-rounds and Santa Claus to keep the children entertained too.

Prague, Czech Republic

One interesting stat about Prague in the Czech Republic is that it is actually the 14th largest city in the whole of Europe and with all that space, there is plenty they can do when they put on an unforgettable Christmas Market.

The unique atmosphere of the medieval city makes Prague a popular place with festive tourists, with Christmas decorations around the city and a wealth of culture that will give you an experience like never before.

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According to European Best Destinations, Budapest is home the 'The Advent Fair at the Basilica', which is the spectacular and event-rich meeting point of the Inner City, where a joyful bustle of the fair magical Christmas ambiance awaits.

As with some of the other impressive Christmas Markets across Europe, Budapest is a sea of colourful festive lights, Christmas displays, ice-skating, shopping, food and drink that will leave you wanting more.